[:en]SCRIPTURE: JOEL 3
“In those days and at that time, when I restore the fortunes of Judah and Jerusalem, I will gather all nations and bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat. There I will enter into judgment against them concerning my inheritance, my people Israel, for they scattered my people among the nations and divided up my land.” (Joel 3:1-2)
“Then you will know that I, the Lord your God, dwell in Zion, my holy hill. Jerusalem will be holy; never again will foreigners invade her” (Joel 3:17)
“Judah will be inhabited forever and Jerusalem through all generations. Their bloodguilt, which I have not pardoned, I will pardon. The Lord dwells in Zion!” (Joel 3:20-21)
THE NATIONS JUDGED (vs. 1-16)
In the last days, God will gather all nations and judge them for the sins they had committed against Israel. Their sins include: scattering the people and dividing their land, trading boys for prostitutes, selling girls for wine and taking silver and gold to their temples.
When “the day of the Lord” is near, the sun and moon will be darkened and the stars no longer shine. The Lord will roar from Zion and thunder from Jerusalem, the earth and the sky will tremble but the Lord will be a refuge for His people, a stronghold for the people of Israel (vs. 14-16)
BLESSINGS FOR GOD’S PEOPLE (vs. 17-21)
God will provide His people with shelter and give them strength. The mountain will drip new wine, the hills will flow with milk and the ravines will run with water. Judah and Jerusalem will be inhabited through all generations. God had pardoned them and give them a new beginning.[:]